Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants in Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality of Khotang District, Nepal

Abstract

Background: Ethnobotany is a field that study traditional use of plants by local communities. In Nepal, approximately 80% of the population, particularly in rural areas, relies on traditional medicine due to their effectiveness and cultural significance. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the ethnomedicinal knowledge in Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality, Khotang, Nepal, documenting medicinal plants used by local communities, identify diseases treated, plant parts used and application method, evaluate the Use Value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) as well as threats, and conservation practices to these medicinal plants. Methods: Primary data were gathered through reconnaissance surveys, key informant interviews, structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and field observations. Secondary data included previous research, journals, books, and reports. Results: A total of 102 medicinal plants across 93 genera and 57 families were documented. Herbs were the most common life form (52.94%), with roots being the most used part (21.31%). Oral administration was predominant (72.54%), with inhalation being least common. Gastrointestinal disorders were most treated (54 plants), followed by skin issues. A total of 10 species showed highest FL of 100% for specific ailments. ICF values ranged from 0.11 to 0.75, with urologic disorders showing the highest consensus. Paris polyphylla had the highest RFC (0.98), while Cheilocostus speciosus had the lowest (0.02). The findings highlight significant UV for plants like Curcuma domestica L (1.83), indicating their high importance in treating ailments and frequent use as a traditional medicine. Despite a rich ethnomedicinal heritage unsustainable harvesting, forest fires, deforestation, illegal collection have threatened these resources. Conservation efforts include cultivating high-demand species, reforestation, and selective harvesting. Conclusion: Although Kepilasgadhi is rich in medicinal plants and traditional knowledge, declining youth interest threatens their preservation. Urgent initiatives are needed to educate younger generations about these practices.